For a subset of industry professionals, the last few years have been characterised by “an unrelenting onslaught of challenge after challenge”, according to one of the nation’s peak real estate bodies.
The Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) has recently drawn attention to the increasingly dire situation facing the property management profession, with the sector recently losing staff in droves. Likewise, their Victorian counterparts have seen massive numbers leaving the profession resulting in unseen staff shortages.
REIQ chief executive Antonia Mercorella said property managers had borne the brunt of the issues raised by tightening rental markets, the COVID eviction moratorium, ongoing rental reforms as well as the recent flooding disaster affecting South-East Queensland and northern NSW.
Whilst Victorians have been spared the natural disasters experienced in other states, the impact of the longest lockdown experienced by Melbournians has created unrelenting pressure that continues to take a massive emotional toll on renters, owners, and property managers alike.
Rapidly rising rents and increased applicant numbers are believed to be responsible for an increased number of concerning reports of property managers regularly encountering verbal abuse and, in some cases, even being physically assaulted while completing the tasks of their jobs.
A recent report released by MRI Software found that a staggering 60 percent of property managers in Australia considered dealing with aggressive and abusive clients their biggest challenge. Renters and Owners are each experiencing their own strain and frustration, however, it is unacceptable that property managers are being subjected to verbal and physical abuse.
Property Managers are the conduit between parties that are trained to navigate strict and complex residential tenancies. Bodies within the Property Management industry are calling for there to be more consideration for the challenges of the role.
For every home available for lease, agents are receiving dozens of applications. Whilst the approved applicant is thrilled to have a new property to move into, dozens of others are unsuccessful, leaving them to continue their search. This leaves many renters angry, upset and abusive, despite the reality that the owner can only approve one applicant. Similarly, many owners are still trying to recoup lost income and get themselves out of financial hardship following Covid losses. Unfortunately, the stress and strain can be directed at the property manager, despite the issue not being a result of their action.
Covid stresses, unparalleled market conditions, and significant changes in legislation over the past two years have placed many renters and investors in unfamiliar and difficult situations. It must be remembered however that property managers are also renters and homeowners who are sometimes going through the same experiences and challenges as well. Abuse and aggression is never okay. Respect from and for all parties goes a long way to assist in working through any issues and usually sees a quicker and more satisfying outcome for all.
